Scotty Bartley celebrates a game-winner with the Bay College men’s basketball squad. (Bay College photo)

ESCANABA — The spirit of sportsmanship and community was on full display at the U.P. Regional Basketball Tournament on March 1 when Bay College Norse Basketball team members rushed the court to celebrate a thrilling moment for a dedicated Norse fan and Special Olympian, Scotty Bartley.

The tournament, held at the Escanaba High School and sponsored by the Escanaba Kiwanis Club, featured 11 teams competing as part of Special Olympics Michigan Area 1. Scotty Bartley, a passionate Bay College Norse Basketball supporter, participated in the event and made an unforgettable impact when he hit a buzzer-beater shot to secure a victory for his team.

The excitement didn’t end there. Bay College basketball players, who attended the tournament to support Scotty, stormed the court in celebration, embracing him in an emotional and unforgettable display of camaraderie and sportsmanship. The moment was captured on video and has since spread, showcasing the deep bonds between athletes and the power of community support.

“The reason why I love being a part of Bay College Athletics and being a Special Olympic Athlete, is because I get the opportunity to create special relationships with the student athletes. Plus, I get to have the opportunity to talk to them and become friends with them,” said Bartley.

“Ever since Bay College started their athletic program, I’ve always wished to have the opportunity to have them come watch me play,” he added. “This year that wish came true. It meant so much to me that the men’s and women’s basketball teams were there–and I was surprised that the baseball team came as well! It meant so much to me having them all there watch me hit the game winner! The thing I loved the most was after my team and I won, both the men and women’s basketball teams came on the court to celebrate with my team and me. It showed how much they love and care about me–they made that day special for me.”

Matthew Johnson, Bay College athletics cirector and men’s basketball coach, expressed pride in the Norse basketball team for it demonstration of sportsmanship and community spirit.

“Our players understand that being part of Bay College Athletics is about more than just the game–it’s about community, lifting each other up, and celebrating the victories of others,” Johnson said.

“Scotty has been here to support us from day one and rarely misses a game. He is a very special part of our Norse community. Scotty’s moment was truly incredible–you couldn’t have scripted it any better. I couldn’t be prouder of Scotty for the clutch shot and of our teams for showing up and supporting him.”

Bay College’s commitment to supporting Special Olympics Michigan Area 1 extends beyond the basketball tournament.

The Bay College/LSSU Regional Center Chapter of BPA (Business Professionals of America) Student Club recently raised $1,000 for Area 1 Special Olympics program of Delta, Schoolcraft, and Menominee counties through its Chain of Love Fundraiser, which helps to support essential costs such as uniforms, equipment, and travel for the athletes.

Additionally, on Feb. 26, the Area 1 Special Olympics athletes were invited to attend a Bay College home basketball game, where they had the opportunity to play ball during halftime and stay after the game to take pictures with the team.